TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved young Wrexham AFC fan after his tragic death.

Bailey Jones, aged 20, died on September 27. Cherished son to Jamie and Ann-Marie, and brother to Jodi-Lee, he will be very sadly missed by all who knew him. 

Bailey, from Cefn Mawr, was known for his undying love of Wrexham AFC, following the Reds home and away and being a hugely popular member of the club's fanbase. He was also a keen darts player, playing in local leagues. 

His family paid a touching tribute to him. 

They said: "Bailey's life was dedicated to Wrexham AFC. He was a very well-known fan who would often be heard singing Wrexham chants very loudly. 

"This includes singing and shouting "see you Saturday" to Rob and Ryan on their first visit to the club. He'd often say 'Wrexham AFC is my life'. His very first time going to The Racecourse was when his mum was five months pregnant. They played Swansea City and won 4-0.

"He would travel up and down the country every other week with his dad, Jamie, no matter where it was to watch his beloved Wrexham AFC."

Bailey's love for Wrexham AFC was encapsulated by the fact he only missed a couple of away games in recent years and attended every home game as long as his family can remember.

During Wrexham AFC's recent home game with Crewe, a minute's applause was held in the 20th minute in tribute to Bailey. His family was given free tickets to attend the match. 

"We cannot tell you what this felt like for us being there," they said. "We will never forget that."

The family tribute continued: "But no matter what, Bailey always put his family first. He loved family gatherings and would always wish for more. He loved Sundays with nana and grampy, and Fridays with mum and Jodi visiting nanny, Norma, Chris and Colin."

Bailey loved spending time at what he'd call 'Paul and Debra's bar - the home of his auntie and uncle where he would play darts with nana Heather, aunties, uncles and cousins. He also played for the Queen's Head pub in Cefn Mawr in a local league. He was an annual attendee at the World Matchplay at Winter Gardens in Blackpool.

The Leader: Bailey at the darts.Bailey at the darts. (Image: Family photo)

Other interests include mountain biking, and he was known for his love of soaps on TV. His family said he "never missed an episode of Corrie". 

Bailey loved the Declan Swans, and would often be heard blasting out 'It's Always Sunny in Wrexham'. And the band posted on their Facebook page saying they are "truly devastated" by Bailey's death. 

They said: "Our love and thoughts go to your family and friends. You have made happy memories for so many who will miss you so so much.

"Always in the mosh pit, your energy was infectious and your smile just lit the room.

"Wrexham FC runs through your veins, and you could always be heard starting the chants home and away.

"You will be in our hearts forever."

The Leader: Bailey with Michael Hett - lead singer of Declan Swans.Bailey with Michael Hett - lead singer of Declan Swans. (Image: Declan Swans)

Bailey attended St Christopher's School in Wrexham. The family tribute said: "We will be forever grateful for the time and effort given to Bailey from all teachers and staff in helping make him turn into the wonderful, kind-hearted young man he was. 

"He was prom king in 2022, and sang 'Sweet Caroline' - encouraging teachers and friends to get up and dance. Bailey was extremely popular with pupils and staff. He was so sad to leave in July 2022 and would have stayed there forever if he could."

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Bailey remained in contact and became good friends with some of his teachers. 

As a testament to Bailey's character and his popularity, hundreds of people have left comments of condolence on social media. 

His family added: "We are so touched by all the heartwarming and touching messages on social media.

"We miss Bailey so much and are completely heartbroken to have lost him too soon."

His family has expressed their thanks to the "amazing" staff at Royal Stoke University Hospital (where Bailey was treated in the days before his death) for their "care and compassion" shown at the "saddest time of our lives".

Bailey’s funeral service will be held at St Mary’s Church in Ruabon at 3pm on October 20, followed by his burial attended by family and close friends at Trefynant cemetery in Acrefair.

A funeral procession will also be driving by The Racecourse ground on Mold Road, at approximately 2.15/2.30pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend the wake at The Queens Hotel in Cefn Mawr later that afternoon.